Gross Income Limits

• To qualify to receive food stamps in Florida, your household gross income must not exceed 200% of the federal poverty level. Felons and people who have broken the rules of the food-stamp program in the past must gross less than 130% of the federal poverty level. You must also meet the 130% requirement if you refuse to submit to a work-training program and cannot demonstrate that you work at a job at least 20 hours per week. The gross income limits do not apply to elderly or disabled Florida residents.
  
  

Net Income Limits

• Florida residents, including the elderly and disabled, must take home less than 100% of the federal poverty level after taxes and deductions to qualify for food stamps. Most applicants must meet both the gross- and net-income requirements to receive benefits, but the elderly and disabled must only meet the net-income requirement.
  
  

Deductions

• To help you qualify, Florida allows you to deduct certain expenses before evaluating whether your income qualifies for food stamps. Expenses like your rent or mortgage, utility bills, child support, medical bills and care for dependents reduce the amount of your income that is counted. Florida also deducts a portion of your earnings as a standard deduction before calculating your eligibility.
  
  

Resources

• In addition to income limits, Florida also requires you to meet a resource test to show you truly need food stamps. You are required to have less than $2,000 in cash, bank accounts and other resources to qualify. If an elderly or disabled person lives with you, your resources must not exceed $3,000 to qualify. Florida does not count your home when figuring your available resources.
  
  

Application

• If you believe you might qualify, apply as soon as possible using the Access Florida online system. If approved, your benefits start the day you begin your application. You can also apply in person by visiting your local food-stamp office. A caseworker will ask for proof of income and proof of your identity when you apply. Your caseworker will review your income and available deductions, and the Florida Department of Children and Families will notify you within 30 days of your application to let you know if you qualify.